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CNM’s BSc module spotlights medicinal mushrooms with Europe’s mycotherapy experts
As part of the BSc (Hons) Nutritional Therapy degree, CNM offers a specialist module on medicinal mushrooms, created in collaboration with Hifas da Terra, Europe’s leading experts in mycotherapy.
To give us an inside look at the world of medicinal mushrooms, we spoke with Sophie Barrett, Head of Education at Hifas da Terra UK and Ireland. With a background in herbal medicine and naturopathy, Sophie specialises in translating the science of mycotherapy into practical, practitioner-led learning. She also supports health professionals in the safe and effective use of medicinal mushrooms.
What makes a mushroom ‘medicinal’?
Medicinal mushrooms aren’t just your regular kitchen mushrooms – they’re packed with special compounds like beta-glucans, triterpenes and polysaccharides that can’t be found in everyday varieties. These powerful compounds help support your immune system, hormones and metabolism. While button or portobello mushrooms are nutritious, medicinal mushrooms like Reishi, Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane have been studied for their immune-boosting, brain-protecting and anti-inflammatory effects. Think of them as nature’s supercharged mushrooms for your health! [1,4].
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about medicinal mushrooms?
One of the biggest myths is that mushrooms work instantly, like coffee. They act more like adaptogens, gradually helping your body build resilience over weeks or months. Adaptogens are natural substances that help your body adapt to stress, supporting your hormones, immune system and energy levels, without overstimulating or sedating. Another misconception is that all mushrooms are medicinal. In fact, only a select few have been studied and validated for therapeutic use. [4,11,15]
Which mushrooms are recommended for immune support?
Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake and Turkey Tail are the most researched for immunity. Shiitake can boost immune cell function and reduce inflammation, while Reishi and Maitake help activate natural killer (NK) cells, which are special immune cells that act like the body’s frontline soldiers, seeking out and destroying infected or abnormal cells. At Hifas da Terra, we combine these in synergistic mushrooms into formulas, such as Mico-Five , a popular option for adults looking for extra protection against recurring colds and infections. [9,14]
Can mushrooms also help with stress, anxiety, brain fog and hormones?
Reishi is calming and helps regulate stress hormones, while Lion’s Mane supports memory, focus and nerve repair. Cordyceps works on your body’s central stress response system, helping restore energy and balance. We combine these three mushrooms in Hifas-Equilbrium, designed to support emotional balance, mental clarity and resilience under stress. [1, 11].
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How does Cordyceps improve stamina and athletic performance?
Cordyceps contains compounds that help cells produce energy more efficiently and improve oxygen use. Research shows it enhances exercise tolerance, reduces fatigue and speeds recovery. A 2012 study with cyclists found that Cordyceps from Hifas da Terra helped prevent overtraining syndrome, boost muscle power and reduce lactic acid buildup. Our Mico-Cord supplement is a concentrated extract ideal for performance and recovery. [2,11,17].
Can medicinal mushrooms support gut health and digestion?
Mushrooms act as prebiotics, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut. They also have anti-inflammatory and gut-protective effects that support digestion. This gut–brain link may explain why Lion’s Mane benefits both mood and cognition. We created Hifas-Microbiota, combining Lion’s Mane with Reishi and other strains to nourish the gut and support overall digestive health. [6,7].
Do medicinal mushrooms support detox and liver health?
Reishi and Maitake help protect the liver and aid detoxification by enhancing liver enzymes and reducing cell damage caused by toxins. Polyporus umbellatus has traditionally been used for fluid balance and lymphatic drainage. We’ve combined Maitake and Polyporus in a synergistic formula shown to aid liver and lymph health, helping the body clear toxins more effectively.
What’s the best way to take medicinal mushrooms?
Extraction is key, but extraction methods are going to change according to the type of compounds targeted, for instance hot-water or dual extracts unlock beta-glucans and triterpenes, making them easier for your body to absorb and use compared to raw powders. However, powders still offer prebiotic fibre for gut health, but capsules are often the most convenient for consistent dosing. Always check labels to ensure you’re getting the therapeutic benefits. [8].
Should you take single mushroom extracts or blends?
Both can be useful. Single extracts target specific needs, like Lion’s Mane for cognition, while blends harness the synergy of different compounds. Studies show combinations can support immunity more effectively than single species alone. [1, 9, 14].
Are medicinal mushrooms safe for long-term use?
Yes, medicinal mushrooms are considered safe for long-term use and are even incorporated into integrative cancer care in many countries. People with autoimmune conditions should also seek naturopathic advice, as mushroom effects may need tailoring. Children can also benefit, with paediatric formulas available, though dosing should always be guided by a practitioner. Hifas da Terra has developed two paediatric syrups specifically designed for children: one for immune support and another for gut and brain support, with dosing at 0.5ml per 1kg of body weight. [5,12]
Can mushrooms play a role in cancer care?
Turkey Tail and Reishi have been studied as supportive therapies in cancer care, helping to strengthen the immune system, improve quality of life, and even support survival. [5, 12] Maitake extracts have also been shown to boost natural killer cells, the immune cells that help fight infection and abnormal cells [9]. We currently have two ongoing clinical trials, one in colorectal cancer and one in breast cancer, using our Mico-Onco 2.0 range, a highly concentrated and easily absorbed mushroom formula designed to support patients alongside conventional cancer treatment.
What’s the best way to include mushrooms in daily life?
Consistency is key. A daily capsule or powder helps build long-term resilience. For example, Mico-Cord (Cordyceps) is ideal in the morning for energy, while Mico-Rei (Reishi) is often taken in the evening for its calming effects. If you’re taking any medication, consult with a naturopathic practitioner first, as medicinal mushrooms can interact with certain medications. Space out from medications by at least one hour to avoid affecting absorption, and always check for a pre-existing mushroom allergy, as they should be avoided in these circumstances. [8].
Where do Hifas da Terra source their mushrooms?
All mushrooms are grown under strict organic and quality-controlled conditions on wood or wood chips in Galicia, Spain, using the fruiting body and mycelium to ensure consistent active compounds. The exception is Cordyceps, which is grown in a special algae bioreactor. Natural vitamin C is added to enhance absorption and potency.
Why CNM is leading the way in mushroom education
Medicinal mushrooms are no longer niche – they’re a research-backed field in natural medicine. This is why CNM has partnered with Hifas da Terra to bring this expertise directly into the BSc (Hons) Nutrition degree. Students gain exclusive training on the science, safety and clinical application of mushrooms, preparing them to integrate this powerful tool into their future practice.
CNM’s BSc (Hons) in Nutritional Therapy, validated by the University of Buckingham, is a practice-focused degree designed to train confident and competent Nutritional Therapists. Combining CNM’s naturopathic philosophy with the latest scientific knowledge, the course blends traditional medicine with evidence-based approaches to nutrition and lifestyle. Students benefit from 500 hours of supervised clinical practice and a modular structure that builds from core biomedical sciences to advanced therapeutic applications, including digestive health, fertility, paediatrics and environmental toxins. With options to study full-time or part-time, either in-class (London) or online from anywhere in the world, the degree provides flexibility for diverse learners.
CNM has been training Nutritional Therapists since 1998, and as the UK and Ireland’s largest natural therapy training provider, it has a proven track record – 80% of graduates go on to practise, supported by award-winning training, experienced lecturers, and business skills modules that prepare them for successful careers in natural health.
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References
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18. Reference: Paola Rossi et al. (2014) Improving Training Condition Assessment in Endurance Cyclists: Effects of Ganoderma lucidum and Ophiocordyceps sinensis Dietary Supplementation.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Volume 2014, Article ID 979613, 11 pages.
